We hear: Lamborghini Urus Plug-in Hybrid Possible if SUV Approved for Production

Leaked Patent Drawings Reveal Lambo SUV in Production Trim

The Lamborghini Urus SUV previewed in concept form at last year's Beijing auto show could very well be the bull brand's third model, but thus far Lambo hasn't confirmed the vehicle for production. Now, a report from Italian site Ansa says the model, which is nearing production approval, could be the brand's first plug-in hybrid.

When we got our first look at the Lamborghini Urus concept last year, we weren't sure what would power it. The hood appears too short to house either the Gallardo's V-10 or the Aventador's V-12. Our only clues from Lamborghini research and development director Maurizio Reggiani were that the power target is 600 hp, and that it would be motivated by a "[VW] group powertrain." According to Ansa, Lamborghini CEO Stephen Winkelmann said that powertrain could involve a plug-in hybrid setup. This would meet the car's fuel consumption and emissions goals, and also make the vehicle more accessible in key markets like China, where engines over 4.0 liters are heavily taxed.

The Urus is planned to share a platform with the next-gen Audi Q7, but there's been no word of a plug-in variant of that model. Reports suggest the hybrid Urus will sport an Iturbi V-8 engine paired with electric motors for a combined output of 670 hp. Those who like the Urus' looks but don't want a hybrid Lamborghini may have another option, as Winkelmann told Ansa the plug-in hybrid version would be one of two proposed powertrains. No details were given on the second engine option.

Further proof of Lamborghini's intent to produce the Urus can be seen in a series of patent drawings leaked on Chinese site auto.ifeng.com. The vehicle in the drawings doesn't stray far from the Urus concept, which could mean the production version will look just as menacing.